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Segura displays wheels for unconventional steal

Segura displays wheels for unconventional steal

8/13/13: Jean Segura is caught in a rundown after a failed bunt attempt, but athletically avoids A.J. Pierzynski's tag and scores a run

By Dave Sessions
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Special to MLB.com |

ARLINGTON -- Of his 35 stolen bases this season, Juan Segura's second steal on Tuesday night had to be one of his most memorable -- and least conventional. The Brewers botched a bunt play, leaving Segura in no-man's land halfway between third and home, but the Rangers then made a couple of wide throws on the rundown and Segura was able to steal home.

It was just another highlight in a breakout season for the 23-year-old first-time All-Star shortstop, who entered Wednesday's game leading the National League in hits (144), third in the Majors in steals and seventh in the NL in batting average (.312). He extended his hitting streak to nine games with a 2-for-4 performance Tuesday.

For Segura, 40 steals seems a foregone conclusion this year, though he believes he can do more at some point in his career.

"I've always been an aggressive runner," Segura said. "It's a part of my game, stealing and running. … One of my goals is 50 [steals]."

Unlike some fellow young teammates who are simply trying to impress management and make a statement about their readiness to play in the Majors, Segura doesn't need to worry about stepping up his game in the final six weeks of the season. He only wants to maintain his success.

"The season is going well for me, right now, and I just want to keep it going," Segura said. "Just keep playing the way I am right now, just focus and do some of the little things better. I just want to keep it up and finish strong."

Dave Sessions is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.